Dock office demolition at Security Office and Lock Gate East Crosswall, Ramsgate

“Ramsgate Harbour is the only Royal harbour in the UK, sited within the Ramsgate Conservation Area, and contains numerous listed buildings and structures.”

“The site is located at the western end of the eastern crosswall and comprises a small single storey flat roof building constructed from brick and glass with masts projecting above. The area surrounding the site is constructed from tarmac, cobblestones and paving slabs.”

“L/TH/19/0674 - Application for Listed Building Consent for the installation of quayside railings. Refused 22 August 2019 Allowed at appeal 01 July 2020”

“F/TH/92/0885 - Construction of a harbour watchhouse. Granted 26 March 1993”

“The relocation of the Capstan would change the understanding of how this area was used, however it would be sited close to the existing location and the edge harbour wall. Therefore an understanding of its function and the function of this area would be retained. The new location would require the removal of historic paving stones.”

“This proposal would result in some harm to the listed structures and the understanding of how the area has developed, however given the limited merits of the existing building, this harm is considered to be limited. The proposed paving and the reinstatement of the capstan is considered to be appropriate and necessary to minimise the harm. It is therefore considered that this development should be approved.”

“TDC Conservation Officer - Further to a review of the proposed works and a site visit, I raise no objection and consider the removal of the entirely modern and failing port office structure to be entirely acceptable due to the lack of historic or architectural merit that the structure holds.”

“Whilst I had initial concerns regarding the lack of information regarding the relocation of the historic capstan, specifically how it will be removed and fitted, this was recently addressed through submission of additional information by the agent. Therefore, subject to securing relevant conditions, such as ensuring the hardstanding that replaced the dockoffice will match the existing cobbled paving, I have no heritage concerns.”

“Letters were sent to neighbouring property occupiers, a site notice was posted close to the site and an advert was posted in the local paper.”

“Councillor Rusiecki proposed and Councillor Wright seconded that the officer recommendation to approve be AGREED, subject to the following conditions:”

“When put to the vote the motion was AGREED.”

“The materials and finishes to be used in the surfacing hereby approved shall be of the same colour, finish and texture as those on the existing surfacing.”

“Within 6 months of the demolition of the Dock Office the Capstan shall be installed in the location as shown on approved plan H-EC-P-PLE- 003 0 received 03 March 2026.”